Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit

Benefits Provided

Surviving Spouse and Dependent Education assistance is provided to spouses and dependents, including adopted and stepchildren, whose Veteran spouse or Veteran parent died while on active duty, or from a service-connected condition. Surviving spouses and dependents will be able to attend a public Minnesota University or College free of tuition until he/she obtains a bachelor's degree. In addition, MDVA will pay $750 per fiscal year for fees, books, and supplies, and/or room and board.

Eligibility Period

Surviving Spouse and Dependent Education is open year-round.

Eligible Applicant

1. A spouse of a deceased Veteran who has remarried is not eligible, and
2. A child of a deceased Veteran who is a stepchild must have acquired the status of a stepchild before the age of 18 years and been a member of the Veteran's household at the time of the Veteran's death to be eligible, or
3. A child of a deceased Veteran who is adopted must have been legally adopted before the age of 18 years to be eligible, and
4. A child of a deceased Veteran who is married is eligible, and
5. A child or eligible spouse who has already attained a bachelor's or equivalent degree is not eligible for this benefit.

Eligibility requirements are in accordance with MN Administrative Rules 9055.0445 Subp. 3(a)(b)(c)(d)(e).

An eligible applicant may apply for this benefit by accessing the application.

Questions

Click here to find your regional coordinator for assistance.